A resolution by the board of directors of the National Health Surveillance Agency (Anvisa) establishes new regulations for good practices for cosmetics manufacturers. The goal is to improve the monitoring and safety of cosmetics permitted in the country, thereby ensuring that potential health risks are identified and managed effectively and in a timely manner. The resolution is expected to come into effect within twelve months.
Anvisa’s resolution uses the term cosmetovigilance, which is used to designate post-marketing (when the product reaches consumers’ hands) and post-use (after use by customers) surveillance and monitoring. This monitoring will include the activities of identification, notification, evaluation, investigation, monitoring, communication and prevention of adverse reactions resulting from the use of cosmetic products under normal or reasonably foreseeable conditions.
The main points of the resolution are the clear definition of the responsibilities of cosmetics companies; establishment of a robust cosmetovigilance system, consisting of at least six mandatory minimum requirements: collection, evaluation, investigation and reporting of serious events.
Each company must appoint a professional who will be responsible for cosmetovigilance; a notification period to Anvisa will be defined; in addition to the definition and implementation of measures to reduce risks by companies when safety problems are identified with the cosmetic products produced.
Anvisa reported that the resolution is a step forward and the initiative aims to modernize the regulatory framework for the cosmetics sector, following the best practices adopted internationally by the sector.
The Brazilian cosmetics, hygiene and beauty products market is estimated to generate almost R$200 billion per year and is expected to grow sustainably, according to the Brazilian Association of the Personal Hygiene, Perfumery and Cosmetics Industry (AbihPec). In the first four months of this year, Brazilian exports totaled US$284.1 million. Worldwide, the cosmetics market generates US$500 billion per year.
Five largest cosmetics companies in the world
L’Oréal Paris – value US$ 13.6 billion
Gillette – value US$ 7.2 billion
Nivea – value US$ 6.2 billion
Clinique – value US$ 6 billion
Chanel – value US$ 5.8 billion
Five largest cosmetics companies in Brazil
Natura Cosmetics
Boticario Group
L’Oréal Brazil
Reckitt Benckiser Industrial
Procter & Gamble
